Telangana’s Director of Public Health and Family Welfare Dr. Ravinder B. Nayak.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Telangana, with its robust healthcare infrastructure comprising nearly one lakh hospital beds across government and private sectors, is well-prepared to address potential challenges posed by Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).
In a conversation with The Hindu, Telangana Director of Public Health and Family Welfare Dr. Ravinder B. Nayak sheds light on the measures in place and the State’s readiness to handle a possible surge in HMPV cases.
Can you provide some context on the recent concerns about HMPV?
From the time the government of India held its initial press briefing on HMPV, we have been actively following all the guidelines. It’s important for the public not to panic. HMPV is not a new virus; it was identified in 2001 and has existed globally since then. The sudden focus on HMPV is primarily due to media reports from China. However, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that HMPV poses a significant threat.
How is Telangana’s Health Department addressing the situation?
We are maintaining close communication with the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to receive regular updates. Additionally, the Health Department has issued public advisories outlining dos and don’ts and will continue to do so regularly.
What are the symptoms of HMPV, and who is most vulnerable?
HMPV typically presents with mild symptoms such as cold, cough, fever, runny nose, and body pains. In some cases, it can progress to more severe conditions like pneumonia. Children and senior citizens are particularly vulnerable to these symptoms, so they should take extra precautions.
Is the State prepared to handle potential HMPV cases?
The Health Department is fully equipped to tackle any situation. Telangana has sufficient infrastructure, including beds with oxygen, ventilators, and other necessary medical resources. While the symptoms of HMPV are generally mild, we are prepared for any eventuality.
What does the data say about the current situation in Telangana?
If we compare influenza and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) cases, the data shows that the number of cases in December 2024 is lower than in December 2023. This indicates there is no reason for panic, as a concerning situation would result in an increase in cases, which is not happening.
Has there been any confirmation of new cases from national health authorities?
So far, the NCDC, which is the central authority at the government level, has not confirmed any new cases. The cases reported were identified through routine surveillance and are not new. This further highlights that there is no need for alarm.
Published – January 16, 2025 10:49 am IST
